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Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders are my trusty answer to that “what’s for dinner” moment when everyone wants something fast and flavorful. These juicy skillet chicken pieces come smothered in garlicky butter and fresh herbs, perfect for tossing onto salads, piling into sandwiches, or just enjoying on their own with veggies and rice. My family fell in love with these after one hectic weeknight and now we keep a batch for easy lunches and snacks all week.
The first time I served these at a family get together the plate vanished before I even sat down my kids requested them again the next day and now it is a weekly staple
Ingredients
- Chicken Tenderloins: Use about one and a half pounds for best texture choose plump pieces and trim any sinew or tough bits
- Cajun Seasoning: Make your own with paprika cayenne brown sugar and dried herbs fresh spices make all the difference
- Garlic: The more the better mince it fresh for that signature punch
- Butter: Choose a high quality brand for a creamy finish salted or unsalted both work just taste before final seasoning
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a bright finish chop right before serving for the best taste
- Olive Oil: Needed to coat the chicken and cook it in the pan use extra virgin for flavor but any good olive oil works
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Drizzle the chicken pieces all over with olive oil until just coated then sprinkle generously with your homemade cajun seasoning making sure every side is covered gently press the seasoning in so it sticks well
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet to medium wait until it is hot then pour in more olive oil add the chicken pieces without crowding cook each side for about two or three minutes until golden and cooked through you may need to work in two batches
- Add the Garlic Butter:
- Lower the heat to very low push the chicken to one side slip butter into the pan and let it melt stir in the fresh garlic and sizzle for about thirty seconds until fragrant then toss everything so the tenders are thoroughly coated
- Finish and Serve:
- Take the skillet off the heat sprinkle over fresh chopped parsley and turn the chicken to coat every piece serve immediately for best flavor and texture
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The way garlic and butter mingle with cajun spice is my favorite part sometimes I use extra parsley from my garden for a pop of green that reminds me of making this dish outdoors on our patio
Storage Tips
Leftover chicken tenders keep well in an airtight container for three to four days in the fridge Reheat gently in a skillet with a dab of butter or warm in the microwave for a quick lunch If you want to freeze them wrap tightly and freeze up to two months just thaw overnight in the fridge and rewarm to order
Ingredient Substitutions
No chicken tenders on hand Use boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips or cubes Chicken thighs work beautifully too just adjust cooking time as needed For an herby twist swap parsley for chives or cilantro Or get creative with the spices chipotle powder or smoked paprika both add tons of character
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Serving Suggestions
Serve the garlic butter chicken tenders with fluffy rice buttery potatoes or inside soft ciabatta rolls Top salads mac and cheese or a veggie bowl for extra protein Sometimes I tuck them into tortillas with crisp slaw for a chicken taco night
A Bit of Context
This style of chicken draws from Southern US flavors where cajun seasoning and garlic butter often star in home cooking The combination creates something both comforting and bold I love how versatile and approachable it is for cooks at every level
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do you keep chicken tenders juicy on the stove?
Use a hot skillet for a quick sear, avoid crowding the pan, and don’t overcook. Finishing with butter also locks in moisture and flavor.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips or even thighs. Just adjust the cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.
- → Is the heat level adjustable?
Absolutely. Control the cayenne in the Cajun seasoning to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
- → What are some serving ideas for these chicken tenders?
Enjoy them on their own, slice for salads, use in sandwiches, mix into pasta, or serve alongside veggies and potatoes.
- → How long do leftovers keep in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Gently reheat to maintain juiciness.
- → What herbs work well as a garnish?
Fresh parsley is classic, but chives, cilantro, or dill also pair nicely with garlic butter chicken.